Move-in is rapidly approaching, so it’s time to purchase those last-minute items that will make your first year of college so much more enjoyable, and though we all know the basics of what to bring, when you’re living away from home for 9 months of the year, it’s important you don’t forget things. I have compiled a list of items that many students choose to bring to make dorm life more comfortable, and to avoid that emergency Walmart run when you realize you forgot something and you need it…. NOW.

Now, I’m sure everyone knows to bring the basic items such as clothing, computers, shoes, toiletries, and bedding, but here are some things you may not have thought of, or you forgot to purchase.

Clothing

Obviously you want to bring enough clothing to get you through more than a week without running out and having to do laundry. This isn’t camp, and some times our laundry schedule gets thrown off by a busy work week, or by hordes of people who also realized they have NO clean clothes. Make sure you bring enough clothing to get you by for a while if you find yourself without time to make a laundry break.

NICE clothes. Most days you wear everyday casual clothes to class, but as you could imagine, there are opportunities to dress up and look nice. Make sure you have some nice, more formal clothing items, so you aren’t in a bind when these events present themselves. Homecoming, My Tie, Formals (for frats and sororities), and Rush (also for frats and sororities) are all opportunities to dress up. Some people also dress up for football games (but it isn’t necessary. You can either go fancy, or go spirited), and whether or not you join a frat or sorority, you could still get asked to one of their functions or formals, in which case nice clothing is required in many situations.

Rain gear. It rains quite often during certain seasons in Greenville, so make sure you are prepared for a rainy day. Rain coats, umbrellas, and rain boots are all reasonable things to bring in case we have a rain out of a day.

Dryer Sheets. Not necessary, but some people forget to clean the lint out of the dryers at Furman and if that’s the case… your laundry might end up smelling funny. Keep these on hand to avoid that! (PS laundry is free! So don’t worry about bringing rolls of quarters!)

Bedding

Obviously you want to buy a comforter and sheets for your bed, but some extra items can make sleeping away from home a bit more comfortable.

EXTRA SHEETS. Like I said with the clothing, sometimes you just don’t have time to wash your bedding. Instead of sleeping in the same filthy sheets, bring a spare set. This way, you can change your bedding, and wash them when you have time.

Memory Foam or Mattress Pad. Seriously. Best investment of my college shopping experience. I actually bought both memory foam and a mattress pad, and people were jealous of the comfy-ness of my bed. It really makes sleeping in a bed that isn’t your adored bed back home a lot easier.

Pillows. Obviously you’d have at least one, and more aren’t necessary. But body pillows, husband pillows, and just extra of the “standard” pillows are always nice. Again: NOT NECESSARY, but a good idea.

Throw Blanket. Something small (or large if you really want it) that you can take with you if someone on the hall is having a movie night. Instead of unmaking your bed and taking your comforter, it’s nice to have another blanket you can grab on a whim and bring with you.

Things for the Room

Air Freshener. It’s highly overlooked, and highly useful. Whether your roommate hasn’t done laundry in a month, or you just can’t seem to keep your gym shoes smelling nice, it’s always appreciated when you have something to at least mask it. Spray or plug-ins, I would classify this as a college room must.

Suspension rod and curtains. The closets in Townes do not have doors, and the room looks cleaner when the closets are covered. I would recommend buying some curtains and a rod to hang them up with. You can find closet dimensions on the Furman website to figure out what size rod and curtains to purchase.

Window coverings. The blinds in the dorm rooms aren’t the best, sometimes they don’t work, and they aren’t the nicest. Buying a room darkening curtain that you can close when you’re trying to sleep is a wise purchase, but not necessary. My roommate and I bought sheer curtains last year because our blinds were broken.

Additional storage. Although the closets have shelves, the dressers are huge, and the desk large as well, some of us still want MORE storage. It is very useful to have plastic storage bins (in the bathroom especially to store toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.). They are relatively cheap and are very useful for keeping your room organized.

Hangers. Sounds like something people wouldn’t forget, but you’d be surprised. People pack up all their clothing from back home but forget to grab hangers to hang them from. Easy mistake, but easy to avoid as well.

Dishes. Reusable plates, bowls, and utensils are useful to have. Though we aren’t located far from the dining hall, hall birthdays or occasions could mean cake and other goodies, but B.Y.O.P. (bring your own plate) is often the protocol followed in the event of such and occasion.

Something to sit on. (not necessary) Futons or fold up butterfly chairs are very popular in dorms. For those of us who live far, futons are out of the question, but butterfly chairs fold nice and small and are easily transported into dorms. Both are useful and very easy to find.

Trash Can. Furman is a green campus. They like to prove it by supplying us with recycling bins for our room. Only problem: they don’t also supply garbage cans. Garbage cans and bags are a MUST.

Tack/ Command Strips. Hanging up decorations is one of the best parts of decorating your room, but beware the dangers of hanging. DO NOT USE DUCT TAPE. The interesting thing about the rooms, is that the paint doesn’t like to stick to the walls, and if it comes off, YOU will be paying a fee for it at the end of the year. Follow the rules when hanging up decorations on the walls, because you do not want to be stuck with paying a fee because of a stupid mistake.

Vacuum. Not necessary because you CAN rent one from the RA office, but some people like to have their own in their room. Sometimes for good reason. The RA vacuum is a behemoth of a vacuum, and it is heavy. It’s still possible to vacuum, but it’s more like a workout than a cleaning routine. I repeat these are TOTALLY OPTIONAL, but they can come in handy sometimes (even the little hand vacs).

Iron. Also not necessary, it is a personal preference. Iron boards are located in the hall kitchens, and ironing MUST be done there. No need bringing the board, just bring the iron itself.

Electronics

Computers, cameras, phones, MP3 players, these are all a given, but here are a couple of things that will really come in handy when dealing with electronics.

Power strips WITH SURGE PROTECTOR. Furman’s website lists restrictions on power cords. Make sure you are bringing one that follows Furman’s protocol.

Ethernet Cord. The rooms do have wireless internet, but it is not always of the best and fastest variety. For faster internet connections, Ethernet cords are a must!

TV. NOT NECESSARY, but if you want one in your room, coordinate with your roommate. There is no need for two in one room.

Printer. Also not necessary, especially since Furman has free printing, but some find it useful for last-minute printings. You can always access free printers in the library and for after-library hours, you can go to the 24 hour room.

Alarm clock with battery back up. I’ve never had the power go out at school, but just to be safe, make sure your alarm clock has battery back up in the case of such an event. If yours doesn’t you can always use your cell phone’s alarm feature.

Batteries. For any electronics that may need them!

Bathroom

Shower Curtain and Rings. The bathroom does not come supplied with shower curtains. You can purchase them at Walmart or Target, but make sure you have rings to hang it up with!

Cleaners. There are some restrictions on what you can use in the tubs, but there should be a paper in your room explaining that when you arrive on campus. Scrubbing bubbles and All purpose cleaners are always a safe bet, but avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals that could possibly cause damage.

Toilet Paper! Bathrooms are your own responsibility, so make sure you keep your supply up!

I hope this list helps you with the last purchases before heading to Furman. Remember: THIS ISN’T A LIST OF EVERYTHING, just things that are often forgotten/ not thought of that will really make your year easier. Some of these aren’t required, but others are definitely a must.

Welcome to Engaged Living! We are all so excited to meet you and have you in the program this year! Engaged Living is a wonderful program that really helps you engage in the first year experience here at Furman! Students live and learn together, and build lifelong friendships with those who participated in the program with them. We hope that you love the program as much as all of us do! Without further ado… your super fun hallstaff for next year is…..

Townes 400

Hey friends! I’m Morgan Hobbs, the girls RA for Townes 400 next year! I was in the poverty and ethics program last year and fell in love with the EL program. I can’t wait to return next year to this great community! Get ready for a fantastic year! I’m an incoming sophomore and my hometown is Maitland, Florida. Can’t wait to meet y’all!

HELLOOOOOO! My name is Michaela Barnett, and I am more than excited to meet all of you! I’m going to be a FRAD on Townes 400, and I was in the ECOS program last year. I’m a Sustainability Science major with interests in Spanish and Health Science, and I love gardening, cooking, and being outdoors. I’ll be in Greenville all summer long, working at Greenbrier Farms and interning with United Ministries.

Hey guys! I’m Carys O’Neill and I’m going to be a FRAD on Townes 400 next year. I was born and raised in a small town in the south of England, but currently live in Kennesaw, Georgia. I am double majoring in history and anthropology, and was a part of the “Doing History in the 1950s” EL program last year, which was a blast! I am an avid kayaker, photographer and barefooter and really love to travel. I speak German, play cello and have a pretty awesome younger brother. I am so pumped to be on staff next year, and can’t wait to meet you guys. Hope you’re as excited as I am!

Hi! I’m Amanda Payton, and I’ll be a FRAD on Townes 400 next year. I’m from Lanham, MD and I’m majoring Sustainability Science. I am an incoming sophomore and was in the ECOS program this past year. I love watching movies, being outdoors and traveling to new places. I’m looking forward to being on hall staff next year and meeting all of you.

Townes 300

Hello! I’m Logan, from Tallahassee, FL. I’m going to be the EL RA on 300, and I’m super pumped for next year! I plan on double majoring in Political Science and Spanish. I’m the manager of the men’s basketball team, and I love going to all the sporting events on campus! I’m an avid baker, and like to make the treats a good-looking as they are delicious! I love to dance and sing, but the dancing is more for fun than performance….. Also, I read. like a lot. I love classical literature, but I am obsessed with Harry Potter and the Hunger Games like crazy!! I enjoy watching movies, and since coming to Furman, apple picking! I love to paint my nails crazy colors, especially glitter! I’m a fan of naps and sweatpants (and slippers for that matter). I only read the comics in newspapers, and I LOVE HOCKEY! weird for a Florida girl. Anyways, super excited to meet everyone, and get ready for the most wonderful year of your life!!!

Hey guys! My name’s Caitlin and I’m a sophomore from Tampa, FL. I’m undecided in my major and was a part of the Poverty Studies program last year and will be apart of the ECOS environmental class this year! On campus I’m the “Freshmen Mom” for Shucker Leadership Institute and publicity chair for International Justice Mission! I’m SO excited to be FRADDING it up on Townes 300 this year! I can’t wait to get to spend the next year with each of you, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions!

Hey everyone, I’m Jordan Ellington. I am from Hartsville, SC/The Chattanooga TN area (I’ll explain later, it’s a long story). I am passionate about any animal you can think of, but giraffes and owls are my favorites. As a double major in Sustainability and Biology, I can probably rant about science for days… and please stop me if I do. I love hiking, riding horses, watching the most random movies, listening to movie scores, and curling up with a good book. I can’t wait to FRAD it up on Townes 300. So pumped!

Hey guys! I’m Emma, and I’m going to be a FRAD on the wonderful hall of Townes 300 ladies! I’m a sophomore Sustainability Science major doubling with Environmental Chemistry and I was in the ECOS program last year. I’m originally from Winston-Salem, NC, which is where I get my love for Krispy Kreme doughnuts🙂. At Furman I’ve been involved in everything from performing theater to working with the Environmental Action Group (EAG). I love to play soccer, write poetry, go on hikes, read dystopian novels, sing, act, and everything in between. I can’t wait to meet everyone this coming year, and I’m so excited to be in the Engaged Living program again!

Townes 200

This is Alex Valis…. he didn’t write a biography, but is a sophomore from Rock HIll, SC. He was a resident on Townes 100 last year and will be the RA on Townes 200 this year.

Hey guys, I’m Peter! I’m from the South Carolina version of Florence, though I’d kill to be from the Italian one. My soul is kind of owned by the music department, but that’s okay. I’m a sophomore Saxophone Performance major. I like to run a lot and I like to talk (as you’ll find quickly). I like to think that I’m easily approachable, so get to know me (if I haven’t already talked to you within like the first hour. Did I mention the talking thing?)

Hello! My name is Manuel Hazim and I am a FRAD on Townes 200. I am from Atlanta, GA, but lived in Nigeria (Africa) for the first 8 years of my life. I am a biochemistry major and plan on going to medical school. I love to play tennis and go fishing. I look forward to meeting all of you when you get to Furman in August!

Townes 100

Hello! My name is Cody Merritt, and I will be the RA of Townes 100. I am a declared Asian Studies major, and my hobbies include playing video games, reading about video games, loving video games, and hanging out with international students. If you ever have a question ranging from video games to everyday life, I’m always happy you help. If I don’t have an answer, I will found you one! I look forward to imparting all the wisdom I have accumulated onto my fellow Engaged Livers. Be prepared: we have an amazing year ahead of us! See you all soon!

Matt Gilman is a sophomore, and will be the FRAD on Townes 100. He enjoys a variety of subjects, like Philosophy, Math, Psychology, Music, and Spanish. However, because of this, he is having a hard time deciding what his major should be, and thus is currently undecided. He also enjoys playing and listening to music, tennis, RUF, bowling, kiwi, Leonardo DiCaprio (mostly from his roll in the greatest film of all time: INCEPTION), Guatemala, the color yellow, and bubble wrap. He honestly can’t wait to get started with next year, so hurry up and come! (But don’t come early… you’ll get fined.)

Hey Everyone! I’m Allison and I am going to be the Engaged Living Assistant (ELA) this year! I will be in charge of planning all of the fun activities you will get to participate in! I am a junior from Chicago, Illinois and I am a Mathematics and Sociology double major. I will be in Greenville this summer doing research for the Mathematics department, and working as a summer RA. I was a part of the “Doing History in the 1950’s” my freshman year, and was a FRAD for Townes 400 last year. Outside of EL, I also work for Admissions, the Furman newspage, and tutor math.I am a runner, and competed for Furman’s Cross Country and Track and Field teams the past two years. I also enjoy dancing, reading, writing and contra! My favorite memories from Furman are definitely O-Week and Homecoming, and I am super excited to compete in both of them again this year! I cannot wait to meet all of you!

Congrats again on being O-Week Champions! You guys were amazing and did a great job on carrying on the EL name. We couldn’t have asked for a better group! As you know, we not only get bragging rights, but we also receive additional hall funds to take you all out on MORE fun adventures throughout the year! We are so excited to have you in the program, and we hope that you’ve enjoyed yourself here so far! Here are some pictures of all your excursions this year!

Move-in is rapidly approaching, so it’s time to purchase those last-minute items that will make your first year of college so much more enjoyable, and though we all know the basics of what to bring, when you’re living away from home for 9 months of the year, it’s important you don’t forget things. I have compiled a list of items that many students choose to bring to make dorm life more comfortable, and to avoid that emergency Walmart run when you realize you forgot something and you need it…. NOW.

Now, I’m sure everyone knows to bring the basic items such as clothing, computers, shoes, toiletries, and bedding, but here are some things you may not have thought of, or you forgot to purchase.

Clothing

Obviously you want to bring enough clothing to get you through more than a week without running out and having to do laundry. This isn’t camp, and some times our laundry schedule gets thrown off by a busy work week, or by hordes of people who also realized they have NO clean clothes. Make sure you bring enough clothing to get you by for a while if you find yourself without time to make a laundry break.

NICE clothes. Most days you wear everyday casual clothes to class, but as you could imagine, there are opportunities to dress up and look nice. Make sure you have some nice, more formal clothing items, so you aren’t in a bind when these events present themselves. Homecoming, My Tie, Formals (for frats and sororities), and Rush (also for frats and sororities) are all opportunities to dress up. Some people also dress up for football games (but it isn’t necessary. You can either go fancy, or go spirited), and whether or not you join a frat or sorority, you could still get asked to one of their functions or formals, in which case nice clothing is required in many situations.

Rain gear. It rains quite often during certain seasons in Greenville, so make sure you are prepared for a rainy day. Rain coats, umbrellas, and rain boots are all reasonable things to bring in case we have a rain out of a day.

Bedding

Obviously you want to buy a comforter and sheets for your bed, but some extra items can make sleeping away from home a bit more comfortable.

EXTRA SHEETS. Like I said with the clothing, sometimes you just don’t have time to wash your bedding. Instead of sleeping in the same filthy sheets, bring a spare set. This way, you can change your bedding, and wash them when you have time.

Memory Foam or Mattress Pad. Seriously. Best investment of my college shopping experience. I actually bought both memory foam and a mattress pad, and people were jealous of the comfy-ness of my bed. It really makes sleeping in a bed that isn’t your adored bed back home a lot easier.

Pillows. Obviously you’d have at least one, and more aren’t necessary. But body pillows, husband pillows, and just extra of the “standard” pillows are always nice. Again: NOT NECESSARY, but a good idea.

Throw Blanket. Something small (or large if you really want it) that you can take with you if someone on the hall is having a movie night. Instead of unmaking your bed and taking your comforter, it’s nice to have another blanket you can grab on a whim and bring with you.

Things for the Room

Air Freshener. It’s highly overlooked, and highly useful. Whether your roommate hasn’t done laundry in a month, or you just can’t seem to keep your gym shoes smelling nice, it’s always appreciated when you have something to at least mask it. Spray or plug-ins, I would classify this as a college room must.

Suspension rod and curtains. The closets in Townes do not have doors, and the room looks cleaner when the closets are covered. I would recommend buying some curtains and a rod to hang them up with. You can find closet dimensions on the Furman website to figure out what size rod and curtains to purchase.

Window coverings. The blinds in the dorm rooms aren’t the best, sometimes they don’t work, and they aren’t the nicest. Buying a room darkening curtain that you can close when you’re trying to sleep is a wise purchase, but not necessary. My roommate and I bought sheer curtains last year because our blinds were broken.

Additional storage. Although the closets have shelves, the dressers are huge, and the desk large as well, some of us still want MORE storage. It is very useful to have plastic storage bins (in the bathroom especially to store toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.). They are relatively cheap and are very useful for keeping your room organized.

Hangers. Sounds like something people wouldn’t forget, but you’d be surprised. People pack up all their clothing from back home but forget to grab hangers to hang them from. Easy mistake, but easy to avoid as well.

Dishes. Reusable plates, bowls, and utensils are useful to have. Though we aren’t located far from the dining hall, hall birthdays or occasions could mean cake and other goodies, but B.Y.O.P. (bring your own plate) is often the protocol followed in the event of such and occasion.

Something to sit on. Futons or fold up butterfly chairs are very popular in dorms. For those of us who live far, futons are out of the question, but butterfly chairs fold nice and small and are easily transported into dorms. Both are useful and very easy to find.

Trash Can. Furman is a green campus. They like to prove it by supplying us with recycling bins for our room. Only problem: they don’t also supply garbage cans. Garbage cans and bags are a MUST.

Tack/ Command Strips. Hanging up decorations is one of the best parts of decorating your room, but beware the dangers of hanging. DO NOT USE DUCT TAPE. The interesting thing about the rooms, is that the paint doesn’t like to stick to the walls, and if it comes off, YOU will be paying a fee for it at the end of the year. Follow the rules when hanging up decorations on the walls, because you do not want to be stuck with paying a fee because of a stupid mistake.

Vacuum. Not necessary because you CAN rent one from the RA office, but some people like to have their own in their room. Sometimes for good reason. The RA vacuum is a behemoth of a vacuum, and it is heavy. It’s still possible to vacuum, but it’s more like a workout than a cleaning routine. I repeat these are TOTALLY OPTIONAL, but they can come in handy sometimes (even the little hand vacs).

Iron. Also not necessary, it is a personal preference. Iron boards are located in the hall kitchens, and ironing MUST be done there. No need bringing the board, just bring the iron itself.

Electronics

Computers, cameras, phones, MP3 players, these are all a given, but here are a couple of things that will really come in handy when dealing with electronics.

Power strips WITH SURGE PROTECTOR. Furman’s website lists restrictions on power cords. Make sure you are bringing one that follows Furman’s protocol.

Ethernet Cord. The rooms do have wireless internet, but it is not always of the best and fastest variety. For faster internet connections, Ethernet cords are a must!

TV. NOT NECESSARY, but if you want one in your room, coordinate with your roommate. There is no need for two in one room.

Printer. Also not necessary, especially since Furman has free printing, but some find it useful for last-minute printings. You can always access free printers in the library and for after-library hours, you can go to the 24 hour room.

Alarm clock with battery back up. I’ve never had the power go out at school, but just to be safe, make sure your alarm clock has battery back up in the case of such an event. If yours doesn’t you can always use your cell phone’s alarm feature.

Bathroom

Shower Curtain and Rings. The bathroom does not come supplied with shower curtains. You can purchase them at Walmart or Target, but make sure you have rings to hang it up with!

Cleaners. There are some restrictions on what you can use in the tubs, but there should be a paper in your room explaining that when you arrive on campus. Scrubbing bubbles and All purpose cleaners are always a safe bet, but avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals that could possibly cause damage.

Toilet Paper! Bathrooms are your own responsibility, so make sure you keep your supply up!

O-Week

ANYTHING Robin Hood related (costumes, hats, props) that could possibly be used for O-week. This week is a big competition against ALL of the freshman on campus. Engaged Living won last year, and we’re hoping to continue this winning streak this year. We know you guys are spirited, we know you are all pumped, so dig deep and bring ANYTHING you think we could ever possibly use during this first week of your college career!

I hope this list helps you with the last purchases before heading to Furman. Remember: THIS ISN’T A LIST OF EVERYTHING, just things that are often forgotten/ not thought of that will really make your year easier. Some of these aren’t required, but others are definitely a must.

Some of us grew up with a house full of children; some siblings, others cousins, and for some just that neighborhood kid who is always around. For others, they have grown up an only child, used to having their own room and own belongings. Regardless of whether you are an only child, or one of fifteen, adjusting to sharing a room with someone outside your family can be difficult at times.

Many enter college hoping that they will make lots of very good friends, one of those being their roommate. The problem arises when the roommate you are assigned isn’t quite who you thought you’d be living the next 9 months with. The key to getting along with your roommate is to go into the relationship with an open mind. Some end up with a roommate just like them, while others are assigned somebody that is very unlike themselves.

My freshman year, I was lucky to have chosen my roommate early on, and I had a feeling we would get along, but then again, that was all just based on facebook posts. And although looking at her profile made me think we would click instantly, facebook isn’t always the best judge of character. I was smart about my decision and made attempts to contact my roommate before requesting her and we talked for a long time before deciding to room together. For many, this is a luxury you didn’t, or no longer have, roommates have been decided, and you have never talked to your assigned roommate in your entire life. Well, now is the time to start. Add your roommate as a friend, and send them a little message to get to know them. Even if they don’t seem like the type you are normally friends with, you could be surprised. My roommate my freshman year turned out to be my very best friend at Furman, and I am so glad to have met her.

Now, you can’t get along with everyone. And even friends get on each others’ nerves every once and a while, it’s just a part of life. What matters is not what happened that got you angry or annoyed, but how you handle the situation. Talk to your roommates and suitemates ahead of time to lay down some ground rules. If you’re a neat freak living with a less than cleanly person, adjust! Life is about adapting to your environment, and learning to live and work with all kinds of people! Compromise on certain things, like how often the bathroom needs to be cleaned (and yes boys, it does have to be cleaned SOMETIMES), how late you can have others in the room, and whether or not you need to wear headphones while the other one is working. Laying out ground rules in the beginning of the year is important so that both sides understand the boundaries. Roommate contracts are created in the beginning of the year, and they really help sort out what are and are not acceptable behaviors. And although conflicts still might pop up, they are much easier to deal with.

Lay out your ground rules, compromise, and make sure to give everyone a chance. College is no fun if you spend all your time finding conflict with others. All in all, go in with an open mind. Get to know your roommate, their likes and dislikes, and you just may be surprised.

Yesterday I finally moved out from my first college dorm room. It came a month after most students because of taking a May X class, and somehow, I hadn’t expected it to be as hard as it was. Looking at the empty room, the blank walls, it was hard to believe that one year of college has already passed. All the vivid memories came flowing back to me. As I look back on the past year, I can honestly say Engaged Living made my freshman year experience what it was. There is something magical about residing within the hallways of Townes Residence Hall, and I think I can safely say it’s because of the people.

Those same people I met during O-Week, worked on Homecoming with, and spent many hours bothering playing my guitar, became the closest friends I have ever had. In the beginning, you don’t really plan on it happening, you can’t really tell who it’s going to be, but somewhere along the way you build relationships which will last the rest of your life. College is all about experiences, and O-Week starts off your college experience with a bang. It’s a time you’ll always look back on with fondness. I can’t tell you how many times I have been studying for an exam and thought… if only college was being surrounded with a bunch of people my age without the school work… oh wait… that was O-Week.

The key to starting off college right, and to truly get everything you can out of O-Week, is to walk onto campus with an energized attitude ready to get going! If you really get into it, I promise it’s impossible not to have a good time. I’m not going to lie, during O-week you forget people’s names, you get lost on occasion, and have to adjust to sharing a bathroom with three other people; but here’s the thing…. Everyone else is going through the exact same thing! Engaged Living has one of the best Hall staffs of any freshman brother and sister halls (I’m not just saying that either, each one of them is absolutely awesome!), and we’re here to help you. Little questions or big problems, you can always count on us to lend a listening ear or helping hand.

From chilling on the hall, going out on the town, playing intramural sports, hiking Table Rock, ice skating, having a coffee house, or going contra dancing there’s plenty of fun to be had all year long. While brother and sister halls often become close, none can rival the relationships built within Engaged Living, and I can’t express how excited I am about all the exciting activities and events we’re going to have next year. As move in day approaches there will be a mixture of excitement of the times to come, and reservation at being in a completely different environment. It will be tougher on some more than others, but let me assure you, this is the beginning of the best time of your life.

So you’ve decided to participate in the Engaged Living Program here at Furman University. Good for you! The program is fantastic, and I know that I, along with the rest of hall staff, am very excited to meet all of you and work with you this upcoming school year. So, without further delay, I present your Engaged Living 2011-2012 Hall staff!

Hey Everyone! I’m Allison and I’ll be a FRAD on Townes 400 next year! I am a sophomore from the suburbs of Chicago (and trust me, you’ll know once you hear my “accent” I’ve been accused of having) and I am planning to declare my double major of Mathematics and Sociology in the fall. I have two brothers and a dog that I adore. I was a part of the Engaged Living “Doing History in the 1950’s” class last year, and I absolutely loved it! I love to run, and have been running since my sophomore year of high school, and currently I am a member of the Furman Cross Country and Track and Field teams. I also love to dance, and I am in the process of creating a club on campus for other dancers as well! Outside of all of these activities, I love to write, read, and just hang out with friends. I am a writer and photographer for Furman’s “FUnet” website, and my favorite memories from last year were definitely O-Week and Homecoming. I cannot wait to get started with the next school year, and I look forward to O-Week and Homecoming Domination by the EL group!

Hey guys! I’m Taylor Smelt! I am from Tampa, FL and am undecided in my major. I have a younger brother and too many pets to list! I love singing, dancing, and the cold! I was in the ECOS Engaged Living program last year and CANNOT wait to be a part of the EL community again this year! Y’all better be as pumped as I am to dominate O-Week!!!! See you soon!🙂

Hey! I’m Casey Lovegrove. I am here in Greenville, SC and I’m planning on majoring in Communications. I enjoy photography, reading and writing. This will be my first time to be involved in EL, and I can’t wait to get started. O-Week is a blast, and we are going to dominate. I can’t wait to meet all of you!

Yo Yo Yo! Hey guys, I’m Natalie Terlitsky and I am going to be the RA on Townes 400 next year. I live in Greenville, SC, so if you have any questions about the city let me know. I do club swimming here at Furman and I also like to hike, run, hang out outside, and chill with friends. I will most likely double major in Sociology and something else (it’s still up in the air). Last year I was a part of the Global Citizenship EL program and really enjoyed Engaged Living, especially orientation week and homecoming. I am so excited for this group of Engaged Living students. I can’t wait to meet all of you and rock 0-week again.

Hello Freshman Furmanites! My name is Mary Mickelsen and I will be a FRAD on Townes 300 next year! I’m from Johnston, SC, which is a small, rural, two stop light town. I run cross country for Furman, and my favorite color just happens to be purple🙂 I will be going to Africa this summer to minister to the orphans in Swaziland, and I’m super excited!!! I play the violin and my favorite foods are papaya, blueberries, nachos and brownies. I am the middle child and I love stargazing with my little sister. Neuroscience is currently my undeclared major. Can’t wait to meet y’all soon. Peace.

Hey! I’m Kristian McCallen . I’m an older sister to a 13-year-old brother. I’m from Hubbard, OH, and I’m thinking about majoring in Chemistry. I have a Cocker Spaniel mix (she’s my baby) and three cats. I’m a huge movie buff. I have never been a part of EL, but I’m so excited to be a part of your hall staff! O-Week is the best!

My name is Mallory Becker and I am from Marietta, GA. I am the youngest of six and am an aunt to a four year old nephew and a three year old niece. I love to hang out and relax. I was a part of the Engaged Living “Finding Your Life Purpose” class last year, and I’M SO PUMPED FOR ENGAGED LIVING NEXT YEAR!

Howdy future freshman buddies! My name is Emily Hays and I will be the RA on Townes 300 (whoop whoop!). Last year I was in the Finding Your Life Purpose class. I am from Marietta, GA, and I am decidedly undecided as to what I will be majoring in. I am the oldest of four children. FUN FACT NUMBER ONE: I LOVE food. FUN FACT NUMBER TWO: I used to have pet ducks and chickens growing up. By the time you receive this I will be working at a camp, and will be out of contact until August 4th. I am SO excited to meet you, so you better start getting excited for Furman!

My name is Reston Hartsell. I am from Greeneville, TN. I have one sibling (an older sister who works in the fashion industry). My dad is a family physician, and I am a junior Health Science major. I was on the Furman Tennis team for two years now, and I am looking forward to relax and have fun on the EL hall.

Yo what up! I’m Will Fallaw, the RA for Townes 100 next year. I’m not sure yet what I’m going to major in (which should make all you undecided freshman relieved). I’m going to be a sophomore next year, so that should be awesome. I’m from Conway, SC (which is near Myrtle Beach). Watching Disney movies is probably one of my favorite things to do. I’ll see you guys soon!

What’s up freshmen?!?! My name is Matthew Morris and I am FRAD-ing it up on Townes 200 next year. I am a declared Political Science Major, and will probably double with something else. On my free time, I am the Sophomore Class President, and in the process of funding a non-profit for the benefit for the kids of El Salvador. I sing, play guitar and write songs (how good I am is your call). Can’t wait for some sports domination and repeat O-week champions!!!!!

What’s up guys?! My name is Gavin Fox, and I will be a FRAD for Engaged Living this year. I am a junior, and this will be my second year on EL staff. I am studying Spanish and Pre-Health at Furman. My hometown is Chattanooga, TN. I am stoked for this coming year and so excited to meet all of you!

I’m Jason Michael Brown from Cincinnati, Ohio. I play club volleyball and I’m a health science major planning on being a physical therapist. I’ll be the RA on Townes 200! Peace.

Greetings! My name is Zach Jolly, and I will be a FRAD on Townes 100 next year. As you shall soon learn, I hail from the great- greatest? – state of Texas. I do not, however, own any cattle, ride a horse to the grocery store, live in a desert, or carry a gun (on most occasions). At Furman, I am a double major in Philosophy and English. Let me know if you have any questions, and I hope y’all have an awesome summer!

Wassup! I’m Claire and I’ll be your Engaged Living Assistant next year. I’m a junior from Oak Ridge, TN and I’m majoring in Earth and Environmental Science. I’m an ECOS alum and I’ve been a part of the Engaged Living program all three years I’ve been at Furman. In my spare time I enjoy running, relaxing by the lake, and intramurals. O-week and Homecoming are my favorite part of every year and I can’t wait to dominate with the EL class of 2011-2012!